*expresses concern over unemployment, crimes
The traditional ruler of the ancient kingdom of Awka, Eze-uzu, Obi
Gibson Nwosu has given a pat on the back to the Minister of Power,
Prof Chinedu Nebo for what he described as a remarkable improvement in
the supply and quality of electricity in the Anambra state in the last
six weeks.
Comparing the current situation to what it has been, the monarch noted
that the improved regular electricity supply has already started to
record a boost in the economy of the state and quality of life of
citizens.
Obi Nwosu therefore urged the Federal Government to step up action in
the reform of the power sector so as to arrest the bourgeoning
unemployment and the attendant increase in criminal activities
nationwide.
He noted that he was hopeful that the on-going unbundling of the
sector would attract investors who would tackle the skill required in
the running of the sector effectively.
The Deputy Chairman of the traditional council of the state said he
was however worried over the high rate of unemployment in the country.
The traditional ruler who spoke yesterday in his palace while
interacting with journalists in Awka, noted that if the country could
be able to fix the unemployment of youths, a number of social vices
like hostage taking, armed robbery and prostitution would become a
thing of the past.
He however maintained that unemployment is not peculiar to Anambra or
Nigeria, that the advance would too have their own fair share of
joblessness.
Igwe Gibson Nwosu said that its worrisome in this clime because
unemployment is on a large scale and that the situation is compounded
by the simple fact that a good number of industries that are supposed
to engage the teeming unemployed and idle youths.
The Eze-uzu who is also the Chancellor of Uthman Danfodio University,
Sokoto harped on the there need to fix the Oji River power plant which
he admitted is capable of supplying the electricity needs of the
entire
eastern states. He pointed out that part of the huge investment on
power sector today could be used to turn things around in Oji River
power plant and that by so doing, pressure will be reduced on the
existing structure.
Dr. Gibson Nwosu however noted that since Prof. Nebo took over the
power sector, things are beginning to pick up in the sector.
